Indiana Football Releases Week 2 Availability Report for Western Illinois Matchup

Key Players Set to Return

The Indiana Hoosiers have released their availability report for Week 2's matchup against Western Illinois. The report provides an update on the status of several key players who were injured in the season opener against Illinois.

Quarterback Connor Bazelak and wide receiver Cam Camper, who both exited the Illinois game with injuries, are expected to return to the lineup this week. Bazelak suffered a shoulder injury, while Camper aggravated a previous foot injury.

Also returning is linebacker Dasan McCullough, who missed the Illinois game due to a targeting penalty in the season opener. McCullough is expected to start at middle linebacker alongside Aaron Casey.

Other Notable Injuries

Tight end AJ Barner and defensive lineman JH Tevis are both questionable for Saturday's game. Barner is dealing with an ankle injury, while Tevis is nursing a knee injury.

Running back Shaun Shivers, who missed the Illinois game with a lower leg injury, is doubtful for this week's matchup. Shivers is expected to be out for multiple weeks.

Impact on the Gameplan

The return of Bazelak and Camper is a major boost for the Indiana offense. Bazelak provides stability and experience at the quarterback position, while Camper is a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field.

McCullough's return to the defense will also be a welcome sight. The senior linebacker is a key part of Indiana's pass rush and run defense.

However, the absence of Shivers could hinder the Hoosiers' running game. Shivers is one of the team's most explosive playmakers and his absence will put more pressure on Josh Henderson and Jaylin Lucas to produce.

Conclusion

The Indiana Hoosiers will enter Saturday's game against Western Illinois with a relatively healthy roster. The return of Bazelak, Camper, and McCullough will give the Hoosiers a much-needed boost on both sides of the ball.

However, the absence of Shivers could be a concern for the offense. The Hoosiers will need to find a way to replace his production if they want to be successful against Western Illinois.